On International Youth Day, the COP28 presidency and Coursera, the leading online learning platform, have come together to offer 5,000 free licences for climate-focused online courses and credential programmes. This collaboration will give young people the opportunity to engage in meaningful climate decision-making through access to education and capacity-building opportunities.
The initiative will see over 100 courses being made available to learners around the world, covering topics such as mitigation, adaptation, finance and loss and damage. These licenses will be distributed through UNFCCC constituencies, the University Climate Network comprising 24 UAE-based universities and higher education institutions, and various youth activist groups.
The COP28 Youth Climate Champion, Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrui, said: “Young people have been vocal about capacity building being a priority for their meaningful participation during our global youth consultations. This partnership is a response to that need, and shows our commitment to empowering the younger generation and fostering their involvement in tackling the global climate crisis.”
Coursera’s Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Maggioncalda, commented: “Coursera is honoured to partner with COP28 in the fight against climate change. We believe that education is the best way to empower young people to learn about climate issues and shape sustainable solutions. This partnership reflects our commitment to making climate literacy available to all, and nurturing a generation that will lead us towards a sustainable future.”
The Youth Climate Champion has introduced a new strategy to ensure that young people are included in climate processes, and their voices are heard. Part of the COP28 two-week thematic programme is dedicated to ‘Youth, Children, Education and Skills’, and will focus on providing children and youth with the necessary access to participate in climate solutions.
Founded by Daphne Koller and Andrew Ng, Coursera is dedicated to providing life-changing learning experiences to learners worldwide. The platform has partnered with more than 275 premier universities and corporations to offer individuals and organizations flexible, affordable and job-relevant online learning. Learners can choose from a wide range of options, including hands-on projects, courses, job-ready credentials, and degree programmes.
This International Youth Day, we hope the collaboration between COP28 and Coursera will bring about a positive change in the education of the younger generation and help them play a key role in shaping a sustainable future.
